Why Democracy Day Is Celebrated On June 12 – Yemi Osinbajo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Tuesday spoke on the importance of the June 12 Democracy Day.

He said the celebration of the day has attested to the President Muhammadu-led administration’s commitment to progressive ideals, “especially as it relates to the political history of the country”.

Prof Osinbajo gave the explanation when he received at the Presidential Villa, Venezuelan Vice President, Aristobulo Isturiz, who is leading his country’s delegation to Nigeria’s Democracy Day. Isturiz is among world leaders at the head of their countries’ delegation attending the maiden June 12 Democracy Day activities in Abuja.

Explaining Buhari administration’s beliefs in resolving some of the issues around the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Osinbajo added:

“One of the principal issues, politically, was the recognition of that election in 1993 which was won by, now late, Chief MKO Abiola, an important progressive opposition leader. That is why we are celebrating June 12 as our new Democracy Day. So, we are really very happy that you are able to share with us a very special event – the celebration of our new democracy day.”

On deepening ties between Nigeria and Venezuela, Prof. Osinbajo said: “We believe that the collaboration between our countries in the economy, culture and science, amongst others, will be useful to our people. We need to do a lot as there are many areas for potential cooperation including in agriculture, oil and gas and mining.”